We turned to some of Alabama's leading energy experts for tips to help you stay cool without the burden of increased energy expenses.

1.) Make your AC a fan of the fan

Using ceiling fans in conjunction with air conditioning can actually help reduce a home's energy costs. During the summer months, simply change the direction of the fan blades so they rotate counterclockwise. This will help force the airflow downward creating a "wind chill" effect, says Michael Sznajderman of Alabama Power.

The added benefit is that a ceiling fan enables you to adjust your air conditioner temperature from the recommended 78° to 80°, while still maintaining the same degree of comfort for room occupants. "Even this small increase of just 2° F can lead to as much as a 10% reduction in air conditioning energy use, with minimal costs to to run a ceiling fan," he says.

2.) Avoid using optional appliances

Other energy guzzlers like clothes dryers and dishwashers are capable of producing a lot of heat. Using appliances like these in the middle of day can push an air conditioner into overload, especially when its already working at max capacity to keep the sun's heat out of your home. "On hot days, wait to use your dryer or dishwasher until night time," says Sznajderman.

Alabama Power also recommends avoiding other high heat household appliances on high temperature days such as ovens. Instead, opt to prepare meals using a microwave oven, grill, or toaster/broiler. Sznajderman says "these smaller appliances use about 1/3 the power of an oven broiler."

3.) Redirect airflow to the most common living spaces

Close individual air vents in unused rooms to help minimize the overall amount of air conditioned space in a home, says Jonathan Handey, certified building analyst and owner of Eco-Three energy experts.